Illuminate was a series of light-inspired art and cultural events held across Leeds, Sheffield, Bradford, York and Hull.
Hull Time Based Arts commissioned a range of internationally acclaimed artists to celebrate cultural icons of Hull. Cedric Christie's 'pimped up' car bearing names of noted Hull individuals, Jessica Voorsanger's 'Heroes of Hull' posters and postcards, Gavin Turk's iconic Jacksons carrier bag art multiples, Freee's film commenting on the public's voice starring Hull comic Norman Collier, Bob & Roberta Smith's 'I Believe...' sign and Troika's text message projections all address the idea of icons, be they legendary historical figures, media celebrities or heroes from everyday life.
Several of these works were unveiled in Hull city centre as part of the 'Light Night' series of events for Illuminate on the evening of Friday October 6th. The 'I Believe...' sign and 'Heroes of Hull' posters were located in Princes Quay shopping centre and Freee's film was viewable at Central library.
Cedric Christie
‘if your names not on the list you’re not coming in’
Cedric hit the streets of Hull on Light Night in his ‘pimped up’ car bearing iconic Hull names including slavery abolitionist William Wilberforce, various local legends and key historical dates and quotes. The title of the work ‘if your names not on the list you’re not coming in’ refers to the infamous turning away of King Charles I from Beverley Gate in 1642, marking the beginning of the English civil war in 1642. There is also a reference to slaves remaining nameless until owned by a master, as well as contemporary nightclub door policy signalling importance, celebrity or exclusion.
The appearance by the vehicle in Victoria Square on Light Night, promoting the range of Illuminate artist’s projects, will be followed by a tour of supermarket car parks, the university campus and other prominent locations around town. Cedric will also exhibit the car in London at the Freize and Scope international art fairs and at the private view of his latest solo exhibition at Carter Presents.
Jessica Voorsanger
Which Hull Hero or Celebrity Tickles Your Fancy?
Jessica has gathered quotes from the people of Hull, telling stories about their most beloved local heroes and what they find special about them. Posters featuring the results of her research and relating to each Hull Hero are appearing on posters in Princes Quay and other locations around the city. The artist’s very own favourite Hull icon is the actress Maureen Lipman!
Gavin Turk
Gavin has created iconic art multiples in the form of Jackson's carrier bags printed with his name incorporated into the pre-'Sainsburys at Jacksons' logo design of the long-established Hull supermarket. Details of the launch of this commission and distribution of art multiples to follow.
Freee
Freee have secured an exclusive film shoot with celebrated Hull comedian and entertainer Norman Collier, one of the area’s most enduring television personalities. ‘Have You Heard The One About The Public Sphere?’ will be screened in the Foyer of Central Library, and features footage of Collier reciting lines selected from a recent paper written by Freee on Functions, Functionality and Functionlessness.
The notion of ‘the public sphere’ has its origins in 18th century philosophy and critical theory. It refers to the part of life in which one is interacting with others and with society at large and relates to concepts of identity, opinion and self-expression, regardless of rank, creed or class. Channeling the artist’s dialogue through the comedian’s trademark onstage delivery, the work explores the notion of a counter-public sphere, and the contradiction of Norman the comic delivering a faltering critique of the public's voice.
Bob & Roberta Smith
A sign reading ‘I believe in Genesis P-Orridge - What do you believe in?’ is on display on the Upper Deck at Princes Quay shopping centre. Bob & Roberta Smith pay tribute to the maverick artist, writer, musician and onetime Hull University student and frontman of infamous Hull group Throbbing Gristle and ask you to provide us with details of your own local heroes. Text 07931 505841 with your Hull icons, email illuminate@hulltimebasedart.co.uk or write to us at Hull Time Based Arts, Bond 31, 42 High Street, Hull, HU1 1PS. Your contributions will feature on the website soon.
TROIKA
Using their innovative Guerilla handheld projector connected to a mobile phone, TROIKA are able to project text messages onto buildings, objects, vehicles and even people in public spaces. Text messages sent on Light Night - in response to the Bob & Roberta 'I Believe...' sign and flyers handed out on the night - appeared almost eerily on walls, the pavement, statues and the backs of unsuspecting passers-by, revealing who or what the people of Hull believe in.
